Special to IFN

As respiratory illness season approaches, the Iredell County Health Department is encouraging residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from seasonal illnesses like the flu, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

Getting vaccinated is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of severe illness and help prevent the spread of these highly contagious diseases.

Respiratory illnesses can pose significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations like older adults, individuals with chronic conditions, pregnant women, and young children. These illnesses can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, hospitalization, and, in some cases, death.

Vaccines provide crucial protection by boosting your immune system, reducing your chances of getting sick, and lessening the severity of illness if you are infected.

• Flu vaccine: Updated annually to match circulating strains, the flu vaccine helps prevent the spread of influenza and protects you and those around you.

• COVID-19 vaccine: Updated boosters target current variants and are essential for continued protection against the virus, especially as immunity may wane over time.

• RSV vaccine: The RSV vaccine provides critical protection against a virus that causes severe respiratory illness, especially in the elderly, pregnant women, and infants. It is recommended for older adults, pregnant women who are 32-36 weeks pregnant, and for newborns entering their first RSV season to get vaccinated.

By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself but also help protect the more vulnerable members of our community. The more people who are vaccinated, the harder it is for these viruses to spread, reducing the overall impact on our healthcare system.

To make it easier for the community to access these important vaccines, the Iredell County Health Department is offering walk-in availability for anyone seeking flu or COVID-19 vaccinations. No appointment is necessary, allowing residents to protect their health when it is convenient for them.

The Health Department asks that you make an appointment to receive the RSV vaccine or any vaccinations at its Mooresville location. Multiple forms of payment, including cash, card, check, and money order, are accepted. The Health Department works with most insurance providers, including Medicaid, to make sure that financial concerns are not a barrier to getting vaccinated. 

LEARN MORE

For more information, contact the Iredell County Health Department or visit  https://www.iredellcountync.gov/204/Immunizations

Statesville Office
704-878-5300
318 Turnersburg Highway
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mooresville Office
704-664-5281
610 E. Center Avenue
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.